Key characteristics of effective management
Did you know that the tech giant Google considered eliminating managers from their organigram because enormous value is placed on individual thinkers and self-starters. Google’s greatest concern was the idea that mangers could create a bottleneck, or even prevent, rapid idea development. However, it soon became apparent that good managers play a crucial role in communicating strategy, helping to prioritise tasks and to support career development, among other things.
To get everyone’s buy-in, Google devised Project Oxygen, a multi-year research project to survey staff and run the data needed to identify the key characteristics of what effective management looks like. The research identified 10 key behaviours associated with effective management, they are:
1. Is a good coach
Instead of solving problems directly, a good manager uses challenges as teachable moments – pushing employees to grow and learn for themselves.
2. Empowers a team and doesn’t micromanage
By creating the space and providing the tools employees need to thrive, a good manager gives them the freedom to experiment and innovate.
3. Creates an inclusive environment
In an environment of psychological safety, teammates feel safe to take risks, and make the necessary mistakes to arrive at fresh insights.
4. Is productive and results oriented
By believing in their team’s ability to grow. A good manager motivates those around them to be the best possible versions of themselves.
5. Is a good communicator
Effective managers listen closely and praise often, but aren’t afraid to offer constructive criticism and have difficult conversations.
6. Supports career development
7. Has a clear vision/strategy for the team
Excellent managers make sure that their teams have a clear direction and supports them in achieving these goals.
8.Has the key technical skills necessary to understand what they are asking from their team.
9. Is a good collaborator
A good manager breaks down silos and fosters a culture of collaboration.
10. Is a strong decision maker
Great leaders lead, which means making the difficult decisions, ensuring everyone understands why they’ve made the decision and seeing things through to the end.
Long before Project Oxygen was started in 2008, our founder Kazuo Inamori created a philosophy that holds our management accountable for being great leaders. The Kyocera Philosophy, which began to take shape in the 1950s, is based on Inamori’s belief that a business should not only strive for financial success, but also contribute positively to society and the well-being of its employees.
Widely recognised and respected in the business world, the philosophy demonstrates that ethical management and a focus on human values which can lead to substantial and sustainable success. The key tenets being:-
- Respect for humanity
- Pursuit of the right ethical path
- Maximising employee potential
- Focus on contribution
Reflecting on the ten key behaviors identified by Google and also considering how to integrate the Kyocera Philosophy into our leadership style, it is clear that businesses will thrive on the values of respect, integrity, and contribution.The benefits to business are unmistakeable:-
- Enhanced employee motivation and loyalty
- Long-term success
- Positive corporate image
- Sustainable growth
It is true to say *People first, profits follow*
Paul Wendlandt - General Manager - KYOCERA Document Solutions South Africa
